We all remember the feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s challenges and responsibilities. It can feel like you are sinking with the weight of the world on your shoulders. This feeling of being consumed by fame, wealth, and the struggles that come with it inspired A Boogie Wit da Hoodie’s song “Drowning.”
“Drowning” is one of Boogie’s most well-known tracks, showcasing his rise to fame while grappling with the pressures and expectations that come with it. The song features a collaboration with Kodak Black, blending the themes of success, materialism, and the inner conflicts that come with both.
A Boogie opens the song with the repeated phrase, “I’m drownin’, I’m drownin’,” symbolizing how he feels submerged by the immense success and lavish lifestyle he now leads. He continues with the line, “Wrist so icy, wonder why she likes me, I’m drownin’,” referring to how his wealth, represented by his expensive jewelry, has changed how people perceive him.
One standout lyric, “Chain so heavy I feel like I’m holdin’ up a mountain,” highlights how the weight of his success and the expectations placed on him can be suffocating. Even though he has achieved his dreams, it comes with a heavy burden.
Kodak Black’s verse adds to this by showing a more street-oriented perspective. He raps, “I ain’t Jamaican, I’m Haitian, but I got them shottas,” tying his roots and the struggles he has faced and expressing it in his music.
His lyrics emphasize the duality of success. On one hand, he is prospering, but on the other, he is still dealing with the pressures from where he came from.
Despite all the success and the flashy life he lives, both A Boogie and Kodak Black express a sense of isolation and conflict. They are surrounded by people, yet still feel a sense of being lost or drowning in it all. This deeper meaning beneath the flashy exterior is what makes “Drowning” a powerful reflection on fame and its consequences.
“Drowning” was released in 2017 and became a huge hit, showcasing A Boogie’s ability to mix catchy melodies with deeper, more introspective themes. The song resonates with fans who understand the struggles of success and the pressure to keep pushing forward despite feeling overwhelmed.
You can listen to “Drowning” on all streaming platforms.
A Boogie Wit da Hoodie will be performing at the Coca-Cola Roxy in Atlanta on October 19.